Louisiana has several endangered species in its natural environment.
With its wet marshlands, Louisiana hosts an array of different species types. As in areas all over the world, several species within Louisiana are going extinct. Usually, extinction can be attributed to human impact, including habitat destruction through urbanization and development of farmland. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries attempts to raise awareness of endangered animals in hopes that drawing attention will prevent their ultimate extinction.
American Burying Beetle
The American burying beetle---also known as the "giant carrion beetle"---is one of the largest and most endangered beetles in Louisiana. The body is hard, shiny and black, featuring orange to red markings, which are the key markings that make identification easy. The beetle has a low reproduction rate---normally only once per year---as well as a lifespan of about one year. Its role within the environment is for breaking down decaying matter, which helps recycle it into the ecosystem. Although the reasons behind the decline of this beetle are not understood, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service speculates the cause to be a result of habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, pesticides and pollution.
Green Sea Turtle
One of the most famous coastal sea creatures that is protected under the Environmental Species Act is the Green Sea Turtle. This species of turtle is one of the most ancient on the planet, thought to have existed in its current form for close to 150 million years. These turtles feature a large, hard shell and can swim in the water at a rate close to 35 miles per hour for short periods of time. The turtle can weigh up to 500 pounds while only feeding off algae. Its endangerment first came from hunting; however, recent habitat destruction---including that caused by fisheries---has led to a rapid decline in numbers, according to the environmental protection organization Earth Trust.
Whooping Crane
Although close to extinction, recent efforts to increase numbers of whooping cranes in the world have been successful and a reported 468 existed by December 2004. Whooping cranes are the tallest bird in North America, having a very long neck as well as long legs. They have a white body and black wingtips. Their migratory pattern takes them from Louisiana and Texas through the mid-U.S. and into Canada. Their decline in numbers is suspected to be the rise in human populations throughout their territory.
Tags: decline numbers, Green Turtle